Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I raise an issue that requires immediate attention and action. I call on the Minister for children to come to this House and address the content of the recent report from the Ombudsman for Children. It paints a stark picture of the challenges facing the youth of Ireland. It is disheartening to learn many children experience uncertainty and instability, with complex complaints on the rise.

The statistics are alarming. The ombudsman received 1,790 complaints in 2023, with a notable increase in the complexity of cases. Education, health and care services are areas where children face significant challenges. The ombudsman's report reveals a disturbing trend of the State neglecting its commitments to children, particularly in the areas I mentioned. The State's inability to provide adequate school places, address bullying, ensure access to mental health services and support children with disabilities is a clear indication of its failure to prioritise the well-being of our youth. The lack of oversight in early learning settings and the struggle faced by parents of children with complex disabilities are further evidence of the Government's negligence in safeguarding the rights of children. Some 40% of complaints were about education, with primary concerns relating to school places, school transport and bullying. Some 23% of complaints related to health services and another 23% were Tusla-related.

The most shocking case reported must be that of a non-verbal, intellectually disabled boy with autism who was restrained by a wetsuit. This is appalling neglect. The complaints noted a lack of oversight regarding local authority housing for disabled children, which is why I call on the Minister and Department of children to deal with this issue immediately. Children, the most vulnerable members of our society, are bearing the brunt of crises such as housing shortages and rising living costs. It is unacceptable the State is failing to fulfil its obligations to these children, neglecting access to essential services and education and failing to support those with disabilities.